From Bites to Breakthroughs: Occupational Therapy Success in a Neurodivergent World: Occupational Therapy in a Neurodivergent World

Romisa Hassan; Abdul Samad

Authors

Romisa Hassan SensoryCare by SAM THE OT
Abdul Samad SensoryCare by SAM THE OT

Keywords:

Autism Spectrum Disorder, Occupational Therapy, Sensory Integration, Feeding Intervention, Postural Control, Family-Centered Care

Abstract

Background: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex, co-occurring condition, often marked by multiple sensory processing, feeding, and postural control issues, and school involvement, that is profoundly associated with disability and reduced quality of life. The case study is a description of a 12-week occupational therapy (OT) intervention of a 7-year-old boy diagnosed with ASD and having severe problems in the areas. Methods: A detailed assessment based on the use of the Short Sensory Profile-2, Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI), and clinical observation was used to inform an individualized and family-centered plan. The intervention incorporated Sensory Integration (SI), sequential oral sensory (SOS) approach, developmental strategies, and cognitive-behavioral techniques. They had goals of progressive food texture acceptance, better postural-ocular control in classroom work, and more autonomous involvement in school activities. Results: The child was significantly improved after the intervention: she was able to eat mixed food textures with minimal support, could perform classroom activities 15-20 minutes independently, and her upright sitting position with a stable head position showed considerable improvement. Changes in behavioral dysregulation in the transition period were reduced significantly. The caregivers also expressed great satisfaction with the effective implementation of home programming. Conclusion: This case provides support in favor of the effectiveness of a holistic, evidence-based OT intervention incorporating sensory-motor, behavioral, and family-centered interventions as the approach to the solution of complex issues in neurodivergent children. Active collaboration of caregivers and environmental modifications were part of the process of attaining and generalizing functional gains.

Author Biographies

Romisa Hassan, SensoryCare by SAM THE OT

Occupational Therapist

Abdul Samad, SensoryCare by SAM THE OT

Occupational Therapist

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